Lacrosse sixes (also known as World Lacrosse Sixes) is a variant of lacrosse played outdoors with six players on each side.[1] The game follows similar rules to traditional field lacrosse, with modifications and a shorter game time, and is considered to be more fast-paced.[2] Sixes has been described as a hybrid discipline of field and box lacrosse[3][4][5] as well as a different sport entirely.[6][7]
Lacrosse sixes was created in 2021 by World Lacrosse, the global governing body for lacrosse, in a bid to achieve lacrosse's participation in the Olympic Games.[8] It will make its Olympic debut in 2028.[9][10]
History
On May 18, 2021, World Lacrosse announced a version of field lacrosse that would be formally known as "World Lacrosse Sixes". Sixes was developed in order to reduce barriers to entry for lacrosse (such as cost and field size), encourage global growth, and to fit within the framework of future Olympic participation. World Lacrosse has also stated that the format would provide more parity in international lacrosse.[2][11][12]
The format's first use at a major international sporting event came at the 2022 World Games in Birmingham, Alabama.[13]
In 2023, lacrosse sixes was added to the program of the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, marking the first time any variety of lacrosse has been a medal event since 1908.[9] Lacrosse sixes' Olympic inclusion parallels that of rugby sevens and 3x3 basketball, also smaller-scale versions of established sports.[1]
In 2026, the first world championship events in lacrosse sixes will be held for both men and women. World Lacrosse has also announced plans for an annual Sixes World Series held across different continents.[14]